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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAugust 26, 2002OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF COLUMBIA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 26, 2002 The following are the minutes for the regular meeting of the City Council held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 26, 2002 in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 590 40th Avenue N.E., Columbia Heights, Minnesota. Father Backmann, Immaculate Conception Church, gave the invocation. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Peterson called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Absent: Mayor Peterson, Councilmember Szurek, Councilmember Wyckoff, Councilmember Nawrocki Councilmember Williams PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO MEETING AGENDA Walt Fehst, City Manager, pointed out the change to the proposed Library Budget meeting time from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00p. m. PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND GUESTS Proclamations Mayor Peterson introduced Margaret Profi, and read a Proclamation declaring August 26, 2002 as Margaret Profi Day, for receving the Anoka County Outstanding Senior Citizen Award. Mrs'. Profi spoke on the thrill she receives volunteering her time. Shirley Barnes, Chief Executive Officer of Crest View Lutheran Home, spoke of Mrs. Profi ' s nomination to share with the rest of the county what a wonderfu/ person and volunteer Mrs'. Profi is. Presentations -none Introduction of New Employees - none Recognition Columbia Heights Beautification Committee Mayor Peterson thanked the group for their work in the city. dean Kuehn, Special Projects' Coordinator, listed the sites that the group plants for the city each year and stated that they take care of weeding and watering these sites all summer long. Committee members present introduced themselves. CONSENT AGENDA Walt Fehst, City Manager, presented the consent agenda items. Nawrocki removed items 2, 3, 4. MOTION by Nawrocki, second by Wyckoff, to approve the Consent Agenda items, (except items 2, 3, and 4) as follows: 1) Minutes for Approval Motion to approve the minutes of the August 12, 2002, regular City Council meeting as presented, with requested corrections. Nawrocki requested that on page one, third paragraph, the word "wish" be removed. Nawrocki requested that on page 12, under fiquor store discussion, he did not indicate 'Tt would be City Council Minutes August 26, 2002 Page 2 of 7 good to have another store on Central Avenue ". 2) Presentation of 2003 Proposed City Budget -Removed for discussion 3) Establish Work Session Meeting Dates, Primary Election Canvass Date, and Library and Park and Recreation Budget Meeting Dates -Removed for discussion 4) Establish the date for the Public Special Assessment Levy Hearings - Removed for discussion 5) Authorize Expenditure of Funds for Police and Fire Reserve Appreciation Event Motion to authorize the expenditure of up to $4,000 from the Civil Defense budget fund 100-42500 line 4374 to host the annual appreciation event for the Fire and Police Reserve Units, and that the Mayor and City Manager are authorized to enter into contracts as needed for this event. Pofice Chief Tom dohnson stated the event would be October 5th, at the Chanhassen Dinner Theater. 6) Authorize to Sell, Salvage, or Dispose of City Property on September 7, 2002 Motion to authorize the sale, salvage, or disposal of surplus City property as indicated ion the attached listing of surplus property. 7) Approve Rental Housing License Applications Motion to approve the items listed for rental housing license applications for August 26, 2002, in that they have met the requirements of the Housing Maintenance code. 8) Approve Business License Applications Motion to approve the items as listed on the business license agenda for August 26, 2002 as presented. 9) Approve Payment of Bills Motion to approve payment of the bills out of the proper funds as listed in the attached check register covering Check Number 99418 through 99650 in the amount of $2,260,021.75. Upon vote of the Consent Agenda: Ayes - Szurek, Wyckoff, Nawrocki, and Peterson. Motion carried. Presentation of 2003 Proposed City Budget (removed from the consent agenda) Nawrocki indicated that the City Charter requires the budget to be presented in August. Wyckoff questioned the levy amount. Fehst indicated it wouM be 7. 6percent, which is less than last year. Wyckoff recommended that everyone attend the budget meetings. Nawrocki stated this is a 7. 6 percent increase over last year. Nawrocki did not agree with levying the maximum amount and then reducing it later. Nawrocki indicated a conflict with the proposed September 3~a meeting date and suggested September dth or fib. Upon council member's agreement, Peterson suggested setting the next work session meeting for September dth' 2002. Motion by Wyckoff, second by Szurek, to schedule September 4, 2002, as a work session to include reviewing the summary proposed budget and proposed tax levy for 2003. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. City Council Minutes August 26, 2002 Page 3 of 7 Establish Work Session Meeting Dates, Primary Election Canvass Date, and Library and Park and Recreation Budget Meeting Dates (removed from the consent agenda) Nawrocki asked that the Library budget meetings be changed to Monday, September BOth. Motion by Wyckoff, second by Szurek, to set a work session meeting date for Monday, September 16, 2002 beginning at approximately 7:00 p.m. in City Hall Conference Room 1. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Wyckoff, second by Szurek, to set the Primary Election Canvass meeting for Wednesday, September 11, 2002 beginning at approximately 5:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried Motion by Szurek, second by Wyckoff, to set Budget Meetings with the Library Board on Monday, September 30 at 7:00 p.m. at the Library, and with the Park and Recreation Commission on Wednesday, October 23, 2002 at 6:30 p.m. at Murzyn Hall. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Establish the date for the Public Special Assessment Levy Hearings (removed from the consent agenda) Nclwrocki indicated that the hearings shouM take place after the work was completed so residents couM bring forth any problems at that time. Bill Elrite, Finance Director, stated this change in the timeline is necessary for gnoka County to prepare the 2003 property tax notice, and still allow our residents the 30 day timeframe to pay their assessment without an interest charge. Peterson stated that if cost information were reasonably correct, it shouM not be a problem to hoM the hearings. Elrite indicated they wouM be. Nclwrocki was concerned that problems tend to not be corrected after payment is made. Fehst stated a retainer is kept for that purpose. Nclwrocki indicated he was not convinced that we are saving money by paying the County to do our assessments, and wouM be looking for more information to see if we did the right thing by going through the County. Motion by Szurek, second by Wyckoff, to establish Monday, October 7, 2002, at 7:00 p.m. as the Public Special Assessment Levy Hearing for City Project, #9912-A Central Avenue Streetscaping and Water Service Improvements, to be held in the City Council Chamber. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. Motion by Szurek, second by Wyckoff, to establish Tuesday, October 15, 2002, at 7:00 p.m. as the Public Special Assessment Levy Hearing for Zone 6A Street Rehabilitation Project to be held in the City Council Chamber. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. PUBLIC HEARINGS A) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1224-1226 Circle Terrace Blvd NE Mayor Peterson closed the public hearing regarding rental property at 1224-1226 Circle Terrace Blvd in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. B) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 5101 7th Street NE Mayor Peterson closed the public hearing regarding rental property at 5101 7th Street NE in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code ¢) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 3823 Polk Street NE Mayor Peterson closed the public hearing regarding rental property at 3823 Polk Street NE in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. D) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 3740 2nd Street NE City Council Minutes August 26, 2002 Page 4 of 7 Mayor Peterson closed the public hearing regarding rental property at 3740 2nd Street NE in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. E) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4536-4538 7th Street Mayor Peterson closed the public hearing regarding rental property at 4536-4538 7th Street NE in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. F) Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 4524 Monroe Street Mayor Peterson closed the public hearing regarding rental property at 4524 Monroe Street in that the property has been sold and is no longer considered rental property. Public Hearing called for Revocation/Suspension of Rental Housing License at 1206-1208 Circle Terrace Blvd NE Mayor Peterson closed the public hearing regarding rental property at 1206-1208 Circle Terrace Blvd NE in that the property complies with the Residential Maintenance Code. H) Rental Housing Revocation for 1231-1233 40th Avenue NE Talmer Caraway, owner of 1231-1233 40th Avenue, addressed the City Council stating medical reasons that he was unable to address the maintenance problems, and questioned the dates of correspondence and appointment; set by the Housing Maintenance staff. He stated that the replacement of the back entrance steps wouM be complete by the end of the week. Fire Chief Charles Thompson stated that all other items have been improved and the only remaining issue is the outstanding $800 fee. Thompson stated that the owner couM come in any time and staff wouM work with him. Peterson suggested allowing two weeks for the owner to get the work completed and to work something out on the fees with staff Caraway felt that a $200 fee wouM be sufficient. He debated the cost; charged, dim Hoeft, City Attorney, indicated this was not the appropriate forum to negotiate fees. Nawrocki stated that he is legally obligated to paying the re-inspection fees. Peterson asked that this be tabled to September 9th. Motion by Szurek, second by Nawrocki, to table the rental housing license revocation for 1231-1233 40th Avenue NE to the September 9th City Council meeting. Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Other Ordinances and Resolutions - none Bid Considerations - none Other Business 1) Authorize Joint Powers Agreement with Anoka County for development of new Public Safety Communications System - presentation by Robert M. A. Johnson, Anoka County Attorney Chief of Police Tom Johnson stated that Mr. Robert M. A. Johnson, Anoka County Attorney, wouM arrive soon, as he was also addressing the Fridley City Council this evening. Resident' s comments: Deb Johnson, 4638 Pierce Street, stated that we always see the same owner names and addresses for rental license revocation, and that she wouM like to see them not so well received. Kimberly Ferraro Anker, 1208 Circle Terrace, asked if the tenant; moved from the 40th Avenue City Council Minutes August 26, 2002 Page 5 of 7 rental unit in question because they thought the rental license would be revoked and stated it is difficult when renters do not hear about the problems until it is too late. She asked that renters also be notified at the beginning of this process. Peterson stated that this inspection process was only begun a few years ago, and that hopefully once all places are brought into compliance, owners would keep them repaired. Anker also complimented Officer Rodgers, and wanted the Council to recognize this. Nawrocki stated that in two week; he would tike more information on the history of the requested revocation. Thompson stated that information would be provided. Peterson sympathized with Mr. Caraway's medical issues. Nawrocki stated that we should be glad that there was not afire when the property was in non-compliance. Nawrocki indicated that the landlord is not showing the same generosity to his tenant that he expects from the city. Peterson asked that Council be kept informed. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS Report of the City Manager - Work Session Agenda items for September 4, 2002 · Resolution adopting a proposed budget for the year 2003, setting the proposed city levy, approving the HRA levy, approving a tax rate increase, and establishing a budget meeting date for property taxes payable in 2003 · Bonding package for water and sewer work · Tox alert grant project at MSC diesel exhaust · Central Avenue banners and holidays decorations - process and selection · Set public hearing date for Law Enforcement Grant · School Liaison Officer contract · Contribution to the Greater Metropolitan Housing Corporation for the purchase of 4828 5th Street (GMHC would purchase 3828 5th Street and ask us to share the cost up to $30,000 with $19,000 repayable to us. Fehst described the house and the proposal by GMHA) Report of the City Attorney - nothing to report 14Zyckoff asked Hoefifor information on the Tycoon Bar. Hoefi stated that he was informed by the licensing clerk that a sale is in progress and the license wouM be tramferred at the end of the year. Chief Johnson stated that an application has been submitted for a beer and wine license tramfer. Wyckoff questioned the newsstand ordinance. Hoefi indicated there has been no action to change it at this point. The question is how much we want to argue the fact or if it is best to work out a compromise. Fehst stated that Kevin Hansen, Public Work; Director, would schedule a meeting with their attorney and our attorney to see if there is any middle ground. Fehst stated that newsstand; have been removed on Central Avenue during construction, except one on a post by Burger King. GENERAL COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS Minutes of Boards and Commissions received · Meeting of the Park and Recreation Commission on July 24, 2002 · Meeting of the Economic Development Authority on July 16, 2002 · Meeting of the Traffic Commission on August 5, 2002 · Meeting of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority on August 5, 2002 CITIZENS FORUM Deb Johnson, 4638 Pierce, referred to an August 19th Star and Tribune article and read several paragraphs regarding differences between the southern and northern metro areas. City Council Minutes August 26, 2002 Page 6 of 7 Authorize Joint Powers Agreement with Anoka County for development of new Public Safety Communications System - presentation by Robert M. A. Johnson, Anoka County Attorney Anoka County Attorney Robert M. A. Johnson, Chair of the Joint Law Enforcement Council, which handles Communication within Anoka County, addressed the City Council. He described the deterioration of the current communication system, dead spots in coverage, and channels bleeding into other channels. M. A. Johnson indicated that the federal government has now opened a new 800 megahertz system and the County Board has recommended we move into that system. The State Highway Patrol and Hennepin County are currently on the new system. It is anticipated that the Legislature will allow for a special taxing district, which would be used to pay for the system. The County Board is requesting a Joint Powers Agreement with each city within the county as an understanding of the system and method for distribution of radios. M. A. Johnson reviewed the funding fimitation of 12.5 million dollars and indicated that any funds or grants received would go to reduce the proposed levy. M. A. Johnson explained the distribution of the radios to fully equipment the fire and pofice departments in the county, and indicated that there may be a $20 to $50 yearly fee for each radio that would be the responsibifity of the cities. S150, 000 is projected for spare radios, so if there is a problem radios can be swapped This would also allow for extra radios for special events. M. A. dohnson indicated that each city couM provide funds for a depreciation account, or that paragraph of the agreement could be deleted He referred to funds left in the Central Records Project. The agreement also covers general disbursement of funds. The doint Law Enforcement Council and the Fire Protection Council have discussed the disbursement of funds. Nawrocki referred to the oM communications system. M. A. Johnson stated that it was implemented 32 years ago. Nawrocki stated it began as a joint effort, and over the years seems to be a county program, except when it concerned money. Nawrocki questioned the additional costs for Columbia Heights. ~ A. Johnson stated that the user fee for maintenance would be estimated at $25 to $50 per year, but has not yet been set. Chief Johnson stated there would be 10 mobile radios for vehicles and one hand held radio for each officer, or about 35 to 40 units. Chief Thompson estimated the fire department would need seven mobile and 14 hand held units. M. .4. Johnson stated that there would be no maintenance fee for the first three years, as the units would be under warranty. Anoka County would pay for the installation of units in the cars. M. A. Johnson stated replacement or additional radios required would be at each city's own cost, of about $1, 700 to $2,000. Chief Johnson stated that as these radios become the norm, it is believed that the costs will go down. Wyckoff asked how long this system is anticipated to last. M. A. Johnson estimated 20 years. This will allow communication between our fire, police, the State Patrol and Hennepin County. Szurek questioned how the infrastructure cost would be charged to county residents and if it would be prorated M. A. Johnson stated it would be levied throughout the county in the same way, as a separate line item on the property tax statements. He indicated this would be paid back over a ten year period Szurek asked if it is by the value of each property. ~ A. indicated it would be, and there would be a 30- 40percent reduction in costs by State and Federal funding. Peterson questioned when this system would be operational and if additional towers will be required M. A. Johnson stated that depending on the engineering and infrastructure development, operation might be possible within two years. There may be additional towers, but smaller than most towers. Chief Johnson stated that one of the first moves was to reserve a frequency for Anoka County. We can be put into talk groups with other counties. Fehst stated it is basically a switching system, like a phone system, City Council Minutes August 26, 2002 Page 7 of 7 allowing set up of different groups. Fehst commended County personnel involved for their fast work on this project. Motion by Nawrocki, second by Szurek, to authorize the Mayor and City Manager to approve the Joint Powers Agreement with Anoka County for the development of a new Public Safety Communications system. All ayes. Motion carried. Citizen Forum - continued Patrick Kane, former tenant of Mr. Caraway, indicated that they moved because in July they became aware of the unsure living situation. He indicated that the violations were a problem before he moved in. Mark Feronikas, 1055 Peters Place, referred to Housing Maintenance violations that he was fined for and multiple letters received. Peterson asked that he meet with Fire Department staff to discuss this. Feronikas stated that he was asked to cut trees and brush in his front yard, but that he has grown it to stop vandals. Peterson stated that the City Manager could follow through with this. Nawrocki asked that Mr. Feronikas give copies of all correspondence and pictures to the City Manager. COUNCIL CORNER Councilmember Nawrocki · The City Council minutes did not reflect the term ofMitch DeMars, who was appointed to the Civil Service Commission, and requested this be verified at the next meeting. · Referred to an article in the local paper, regarding possible replacement of two municipal liquor stores. He does not support the replacement of liquor stores on Central or University Avenues. · Actions speak louder than words, and practice what you preach. Councilmember Wyckoff · Related a story about her car breaking down, and how accommodating the Bobby and Steve's Auto World tow truck driver was. Councilmember Szurek · Try to be kind to one another. Mayor Peterson · Don't take ourselves to seriously, enjoy the good things in life, love your neighbor, and God Bless. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Peterson adjourned the meeting at 9:18 p.m. Patricia Muscovitz, Deputy City Clerk